Hoping to get in on the sporting action but hate the thought of getting crammed amongst the crowds of Paris? This summer, Irish Ferries is encouraging sports fans to hop on the ferry and opt for an out-of-city stay.
This summer, Paris will be busier than ever as 15 million* travellers flock to France’s capital for the big summer of sport. So, rather than splurging a small fortune on over-priced accommodation in the city or finding yourself stuck in standstill traffic once the sporting action has finished for the day, why not stay a little further out to beat the crowds and discover somewhere new?
Travelling to France by ferry and driving down towards the capital, not only means ditching the worries of baggage limits and knocking knees with neighbours – but also gives sports fans the option to stay a little further out and leave the hustle and bustle of the city via train at the end of each day.
Leading ferry operator, Irish Ferries, encourages guests to take the seasygoing option when travelling to France this summer, with sailings from Dover to Calais taking around 90 minutes and from just £78 each way or short break returns from just £98.
From free wi-fi onboard to expansive outdoor decks, Duty-Free shopping and three ships regularly servicing the popular channel route, travelling with Irish Ferries means the excitement of a trip to France can begin the minute you drive onboard.
So to help you avoid the chaos but still experience the vibrant sporting energy this summer, Irish Ferries has compiled a guide to the top places to stay all within one hour of Paris.
Chantilly
Just a 24-minute train ride from Paris, Chantilly offers extensive forests and beautiful gardens for travellers to enjoy before or after a busy day in the bustling city.
Chantilly is also home to the beautiful Chateau de Chantilly which along with its Great Stables, is also featured prominently in the Bond movie “A View to Kill”, making it an exciting visit for those of all ages.
What’s more, just 20km away is Parc Asterix, the second largest theme park in France with up to 50 attractions and live shows. Based on the comic book series, it is especially renowned for its thrilling roller coaster rides and makes a great day out for the whole family.
Giverny
On the way from the ferry port to the environs of Paris, Giverny, on the banks of the river Seine in Normandy, is a great place to pitch up.
Taking just over an hour to travel between Giverny and Paris via train, sports fans can spend their free time exploring Claude Monet’s famous Japanese-inspired water garden featuring the famous lily pond, the Museum of Impressionism, built proudly on the hillside overlooking the town or The Hotel Baudy, an old boarding house converted into an exquisite café and restaurant.
Reims
Go for gold in Reims!
As the opening to the Champagne region, Reims offers the perfect base for visitors looking to toast sporting success. With trains from Paris to Reims taking just 46 minutes, a cold glass of bubbly is always within reach after a day full of watching sports. And with no pesky restrictions on liquids when travelling by ferry, Champagne souvenirs can be cramboot-ed into the car and brought back to the UK with you.
Rambouillet
Outdoor enthusiasts and equine enthusiasts will fall in love with the Rambouillet. Just 36 minutes by train from central Paris and 20 from the many horsing events taking place in Versailles, Rambouillet is a green oasis away from the rush of the city.
Free from luggage restrictions when travelling by ferry, visitors can bring along their hiking boots, mountain bikes or running shoes and if inspired by the sporting action in the city can venture down the numerous marked trails that surround the town.
Bois de Vincennes
Another great option is Boise de Vincennes. Situated on the southeastern edge of the capital but still on the city’s metro line, Bois de Vincennes is ideal for families looking to escape the concrete city but keep close to the action.
Being home to the city’s Zoo, Parc Zoologique de Pairs, as well as the magnificent Parc de Floral de Paris, a botanical park with exciting playgrounds for older children, there’s plenty to explore in this buzzing area.
What’s more over the summer, the Château de Vincennes, a symbol of France’s royal history, will transform into a free fan zone meaning sports fans can soak up the atmosphere without the stress of heading into the centre of the city.
Meaux
No trip to France is complete without diving into its culinary scene, and Meaux is one of the best places to experience the country’s world-famous cuisine. Just a 39-minute train journey away from Paris, Meaux is the home of Maison of Brie de Meaux and The Pommery Mustard Mill. And with no need to stress about luggage space when travelling by ferry, foodies can pack the car full of local delicacies and taken home to enjoy when back in the UK.
Get there with Irish Ferries: Sailing from Dover – Calais from £78 each way for a car and up to nine passengers or from £98 for a short break return. Departing up to 16 times per day on board Isle of Inishmore, Oscar Wilde and Isle of Innisheer.